Chelsea’s teenage sensation Estevão has revealed how Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti went above and beyond in managing the squad — allowing him to skip training to take his driving test.
Known affectionately as “Messinho” by fans, the 18-year-old highlighted how the Italian coach balances discipline with understanding, particularly for younger players still adjusting to life at the top level.
Skipping Training for a Driving Test
Speaking to Sky Sports, Estevão described the unusual situation that led to him being excused from national team duties.
“We were in São Paulo with the national team, and things were very hectic,” he explained.
“I only had a little time there before coming here [to England], so I needed to get my driver’s license.
They gave me a certain window to go for the test, and then I got the call-up.”
He recalled nervously approaching Ancelotti for permission.
“I went to do my driving test, and Ancelotti was waiting at the door to see if I passed or not.
I was like, ‘Sir, I passed, I passed!’ Then at lunchtime, he stopped everyone and said, ‘Stop everyone! I have some news to tell you… Estevão passed his driving test!’ Everyone was laughing so much around the table.”
From Palmeiras to Chelsea Stardom
Estevão’s rise has been meteoric. He joined Chelsea from Palmeiras in the summer following a £29million transfer agreed the previous year, and he’s already turning heads as one of South America’s brightest young talents.
Delivering on the Pitch
The teenager didn’t just impress off the pitch — he proved his worth in Brazil’s 2-0 victory over Senegal at the Emirates Stadium.
Estevão opened the scoring just before the half-hour mark, latching onto a loose ball on the right-hand side of the penalty area and curling a precise shot into the far corner past former Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy.
Brazil doubled their advantage seven minutes later when Casemiro was left unmarked from a free-kick and slotted home.
The match marked Ancelotti’s fourth win in six games in charge, showcasing glimpses of the Italian manager’s growing influence, particularly in the team’s defensive performance and a clean sheet.
Ancelotti Applauds the Young Star
After the game, Ancelotti didn’t hide his admiration for the Chelsea forward.
“Estevão has an incredible amount of talent. It’s a surprise at his age,” the Italian coach said. “He’s good at finishing, has a lot of magic, and he works very hard.
I can say this: with Estevão, Brazil have a guaranteed future.”
The praise continued with a nod to Chelsea supporters.
“He can show his quality in every game, even if he only gets five minutes. Brazil is lucky to have him, and so is Chelsea.”
Looking Ahead
Brazil will next face Tunisia in a friendly at Lille’s Stade Pierre-Mauroy on Tuesday, while Chelsea are set to travel to Burnley in the Premier League next Saturday.
Meanwhile, Arsenal star Gabriel could be a doubt for the upcoming north London derby after picking up a groin injury against Senegal.
Ancelotti, while not disclosing the full severity, expressed disappointment at the situation. “We are really sorry, really disappointed.
When players have an injury, I hope they can recover well and soon,” he said.
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